Since 1978, Central Illinois Jazz Society has supported, presented and promoted live jazz in Central Illinois.

It all began in the late 70s when over 200 people gathered for an outdoor jazz concert in a backyard in Peoria.

Everyone enjoyed the concert so much that three organizers founded CIJS as a nonprofit organization that would continue presenting and promoting live jazz throughout the region. The Charter for the CIJS was then composed in September 1978, and the first concert officially presented by CIJS took place on December 1, 1978, at Illinois Central College.

Ever since, CIJS has been sponsoring monthly concerts, summer concert series, jazz festivals and more in the Central Illinois area with the goal of furthering the appreciation and support of the area's incredibly talented jazz musicians.

We provide opportunities for jazz musicians to perform and for fans to enjoy their favorite music. You do not have to be a musician to be a member, and the general public is invited to attend our programs.

All officers and committee members are volunteers; we welcome any new volunteers who would like to support our mission with their time, resources, talent or input. If you would like to support our mission, we’d love for you to join us!

Become a Member

Attend a Concert